ROOS MOGGRÉ
Asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength.
Roos Moggré is a journalist and presenter for EenVandaag on radio and television, and a columnist for LINDA. She also wrote the book 'Altijd blijven scheren' (Always Keep Shaving). She studied International Relations at Utrecht University and Journalism at the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. Roos has personally experienced what it means to suffer from panic attacks and burnout. Drawing on this experience, she talks to well-known men who are fully engaged in life, successful, and facing mental challenges. They speak honestly, with a sense of perspective, and sometimes humorously, about their personal demons. It is about this that Roos wrote the interview collection 'Altijd blijven scheren,' an invitation to men to talk more about their mental health issues. And to always keep shaving, no matter how low you are.
Balance and resilience
For Roos, mental health is about balance and resilience. "It’s not about always being cheerful; gloomy or sad moments are part of life. As long as those ups and downs are in balance, I feel mentally strong," she says. "It’s about being able to handle difficult moments while simultaneously finding joy in the good days." For her, mental health is the foundation for going through life with confidence and energy.
Mental fitness
Roos works on her mental fitness daily and consciously makes time for it. Exercising is an important way to release both physical and mental energy. Additionally, she finds it important to relax and spend time on things that make her happy. "Having coffee out, an afternoon with friends, or planning a vacation – those moments really give me new energy." For Roos, it is important to set boundaries, especially when it comes to social media. "In my work, that isn't always easy, but I really try to limit it. It helps enormously to maintain my composure."
Recognizing signals
Roos also deals with stressful periods. She has learned to recognize the signals, such as poor sleep or worrying. "When I lie awake at night ruminating, I know I need to slow down. Then I go exercise or talk about it. 'Ventilating' is essential for me. Whether it is with friends, family, or a professional, it always makes a difference."
Vrijheid in de natuur
As a child, Roos enjoyed the outdoors. She grew up in a village, where she spent a lot of time with the animals and often went horseback riding with her sister. "That gave me a sense of freedom that I sometimes miss in the city," she says. She still dreams of a dog, but her busy life doesn't allow for that yet. "Maybe later, when the children are a bit older."
Emotion
Roos draws a lot of inspiration from art and creativity. For her, Rome is a great source of wonder. "That city feels like one big work of art. The idea that people can build something so impressive continues to fascinate me." But simplicity also touches her: "A simple drawing by my daughter can be just as moving. It is about the emotion and the story that a work of art conveys."
A message of hope
For those struggling with mental challenges, Roos has a powerful message: "Talk about it. Don't keep your feelings to yourself, but share them with someone you trust, because you don't have to do it alone. Asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength. You deserve to be happy – there is always a way out." Roos emphasizes that happiness is often found in the little things.
